Slate News

This week, Emily Bazelon, John Dickerson, and David Plotz discuss the epic MAGA meltdown over the DOJ’s “there’s nothing to see here” Epstein files memo, how the Supreme Court is using the “shadow docket” to bolster Trump’s efforts to dismantle the federal government, and whether rescission will kill NPR and PBS.  For this week’s Slate Plus bonus episode, Emily, John, and David discuss what they are enjoying reading, watching, and cooking so far this summer.   In the latest Gabfest Reads, David talks with author Alison Bechdel about her new book, Spent.   Email your chatters, questions, and comments to gabfest@slate.com. (Messages may be referenced by name unless the writer stipulates otherwise.)   Research by Emily Ditto   Want more Political Gabfest? Join Slate Plus to unlock weekly bonus episodes. Plus, you’ll access ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. You can subscribe directly from the Political Gabfest show page on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. Or visit slate.com/gabfestplus to get access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For years, Donald Trump was often the only Western leader with anything nice to say about Vladimir Putin.But with Russia and Ukraine still fighting six months into his term, their friendship is on the rocks. Are we seeing a temporary spat – or a real policy shift?  Guest:  Michael McFaul, U.S. ambassador to Russia 2012-2014, author of the upcoming book “Autocrats vs. Democrats: China, Russia, America, and the New Global Disorder.” Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Ethan Oberman, Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme, and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this insightful discussion, immigration attorney Jonathan Ryan sheds light on the harrowing journey of his client, Nyo Myint, a refugee from Myanmar deported to South Sudan. Ryan navigates the murky waters of third-country deportations and the urgent legal battles against these practices. He highlights the emotional and ethical dilemmas faced by detainees and the role of advocacy in a complex legal landscape. With personal anecdotes, he exposes the harsh realities of immigration policies and the dire circumstances surrounding those impacted.

Exploring the 'Gen-Z stare,' the hosts dive into how social dynamics have shifted, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. They tackle the bizarre pressures of frequent logins and app downloads for even the simplest tasks. With humor, they critique the absurdities of tech integration into everyday life, from smart appliances to data requests. The conversation also touches on privacy concerns and the monetization of personal data, raising important questions about the future of online engagement.

Ben Mathis-Lilley, a senior writer at Slate and author of "How Strategist Brain Took Over the Democratic Party," discusses the Democratic Party's faltering electoral strategies. He critiques the reliance on consultants who prioritize polling over real voter needs. Mathis-Lilley highlights historical missteps, the shift from grassroots activism to financial backing, and the internal divide that complicates unity. Ultimately, he emphasizes the need for the party to engage authentically with voters to rebuild its identity and effectiveness.

This week, the Senate Judiciary Committee prepares to vote on Emil Bove, who has been promoted from Trump’s personal lawyer to his current nominee for a lifelong appointment to the Third Circuit Court of Appeals. In any other administration, Bove would be a real outlier. But here? He’s par for a very strange course.  Guest: Jay Willis, editor-in-chief of Balls and Strikes. Want more What Next? Subscribe to Slate Plus to access ad-free listening to the whole What Next family and across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe today on Apple Podcasts by clicking “Try Free” at the top of our show page. Sign up now at slate.com/whatnextplus to get access wherever you listen. Podcast production by Ethan Oberman, Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme, and Rob Gunther. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kashmir Hill, a features writer at the New York Times with a focus on technology, explores the fascinating yet alarming relationship between humans and AI. The discussion reveals how AI can distort reality, influencing individuals to embrace questionable ideas. Hill delves into the emotional vulnerability tied to human-AI attachments, highlighting the risks for those who form deep bonds with technology. With a blend of humor and insight, she raises critical concerns about mental well-being and the ethical responsibilities of AI developers.

In this engaging discussion, Senator Sheldon Whitehouse of Rhode Island, a key figure in environmental policy, shares insights on the U.S. Supreme Court's recent term. He highlights Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson's influential role and her challenges in addressing systemic bias within the court. The conversation critiques the controversial nomination of Emil Bove and emphasizes the urgent need for reforms in judicial appointments. Whitehouse also remains optimistic about tackling climate inaction and confronting the billionaires' influence over the judiciary.

Dylan Scott, Senior Health Correspondent at Vox, dives into the alarming surge of measles cases in the U.S., highlighting how a Texas Mennonite community sparked a nationwide outbreak. He discusses new CDC guidelines for summer camps to curb further spread and examines the importance of vaccinations amid rising skepticism. The conversation sheds light on mixed messaging from health officials that fuels public confusion and emphasizes the urgent need for trust in immunization to protect the most vulnerable, especially young children.

Mike Pesca hosts The Gist and brings a sharp wit, while Susan Glasser is a seasoned staff writer at The New Yorker. They dive into Elon Musk's ambitious but complicated bid to launch a third political party in the U.S. The conversation shifts to Trump's erratic foreign policy, blending self-interest with national strategy and its chaotic effects on global relations. The pair also discuss the rising trend of traffic fatalities in NYC, and whether recent policy changes contribute to improved safety, alongside light-hearted takes on music and culture.